Mercedes is synonymous with luxury. They offer lots of power, the latest technology, and exceptional handling. However, they are also synonymous with expensive problems. A Mercedes is not only expensive to purchase, it has a much higher ownership cost. They are designed to fail.
Why is Mercedes-Benz the worst luxury car?
Mercedes are known for a range of problems, including:
- Too much computerization
- Brake pads that are too small causing rotor wear
- Recessed lug nuts
- Low profile tires that damage wheels
- Windows that go down when door opens
- High depreciation
Scotty Kilmer says that Mercedes is a victim of over-engineering. This is likely intentional, because it leads to maintenance costs which make the company more money. We will look at each of the problems, and why they should be deal-breakers.
Reasons to Avoid Mercedes-Benz
Excessive computerization
Computerization provides a lot of benefits for drivers. Today’s cars can turn themselves off when waiting in traffic and help keep the car on the road. Fuel efficiency has increased due to sensors that monitor the fuel-to-air ratio. Many mechanical issues can be diagnosed with a code reader.
However, Mercedes goes way overboard with their computers. Scotty Kilmer had a vehicle that ran perfectly, yet it had 25 error codes. The modules can be very expensive to replace. A suspension module is $595, and a shock absorber costs $1,190.
Brake Pads That Are Too Small
This one seems to be intentional. The brake pads are smaller than the rotor. Over time, this creates an edge on the rotor. When you replace the brake pads, you have to change the rotors as well. If you don’t, the brakes will squeak and wear out quickly.
Recessed Lug Nuts
Recessed lug nuts are not unheard of on other vehicles, but Mercedes has a deeper recess. If you strip a lug nut trying to remove the wheel, it is difficult and often expensive to get it out. The removal process can also damage the wheel.
It’s a lot of headache when you just want to change or remove a tire. The risk of stripping a lug nut may discourage you from attempting even the most simple projects on your own.
Low Profile Tires That Cause Damage
Low-profile tires are common, but again Mercedes takes it to the extreme. These tires don’t protect the wheel, so the wheel can easily get chips in the rim. The tires themselves can also get damaged, with pieces of rubber coming off the tire.
Window Opens When Door Opens
When you open the door, the window goes down about an inch automatically. When you close the door, the window goes back up. Mercedes claims this is to avoid the window wearing out the trim on the door. However, other cars don’t do this and have no problem with the door seal.
This can at least be viewed as cool, even though it’s unnecessary. The problem comes when the electronics stop working properly. The switches that roll windows up and down break in traditional less complex systems. Window regulators are more likely to break in the Mercedes.
When it malfunctions, you may be left with a window that’s open just enough to let rain in. Given the luxurious interior of the Mercedes, this can be a major problem.
High Depreciation
Continuing the theme of excess for Mercedes, they depreciate at a much higher rate than most vehicles. The Mercedes S-Class has the 4th highest five-year depreciation. Five years after purchase, it has lost 70% of its initial value.
To put that into perspective, the Jeep Wrangler only loses 27% of its value after five years. Mercedes vehicles have a reputation for being expensive to maintain and repair, which is the biggest factor in their depreciation.
Learn More at Vehicle History
You know one brand to avoid now, but which vehicle should you choose? You can find lots of information on Vehicle History. Owner and expert reviews, answers to important questions, and a list of specs for vehicles give you the tools you need to find the right vehicle.
